Darryn Peterson’s Tough Luck Season Continues, But Bill Self Sets the Record Straight
It’s been a bumpy ride this season for Kansas freshman phenom Darryn Peterson - and not the kind anyone saw coming. The former five-star guard, widely projected as the potential No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, has been limited to just 13 games this season. Not because of load management or any behind-the-scenes strategy, but due to a frustrating run of physical setbacks: cramping, hamstring tightness, a sprained ankle, and a bout of flu-like symptoms.
For someone with Peterson’s sky-high draft stock, every missed game naturally raises eyebrows. And in the age of social media, speculation spreads fast.
Some fans have questioned whether Peterson and his camp are picking and choosing when he plays - a narrative that Kansas head coach Bill Self firmly shut down during his media availability ahead of the Jayhawks’ rematch with No. 5 Iowa State.
“It’s really not remotely true,” Self said, addressing the rumors head-on. “The thing about it is, when you're honest, people don't believe you. Then you don't comment on it, people create their own narratives.”
Self didn’t mince words when defending his star freshman. He walked reporters through the timeline of Peterson’s injuries, emphasizing that each setback has been legitimate - and in some cases, serious enough to warrant rest.
“Was his hamstring legit? Hell, yes,” Self said.
**“Would you risk injuring it more in November? No.
Was this cramping legit? Yes, positively, it was.
Did he turn his ankle bad to the point where he couldn't practice for nine days? Yes.
And then practiced one day and played BYU? Yes.
That was adrenaline kicking in.” **
And then came the illness - the latest in a string of unfortunate events. Peterson was ruled out of Kansas’ marquee win over previously undefeated No.
1 Arizona, a game in which he initially warmed up but didn’t participate in official pregame activities. He was later ruled out due to illness.
“And this is what blows my mind,” Self said. **“Well, he didn't play because he's sick, isn’t a big deal.
But he didn't play because he was sick, when he didn't play the other games, added together becomes a big deal in people's minds. He's got a string of bad luck.”
**
When Peterson has been on the floor, there’s no denying his impact. He’s averaging 20.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, shooting an efficient 48.9% from the field - all in under 28 minutes per contest. Those are elite numbers, especially for a freshman navigating high expectations and now, a series of physical hurdles.
Jayhawks Face a Crucial Stretch
Despite Peterson’s absence, Kansas managed to notch a signature win over Arizona - a gritty 82-78 victory at Allen Fieldhouse that marked head coach Bill Self’s first career win over an AP No. 1 team at home. That effort was powered by standout performances from forward Flory Bidunga and guard Melvin Council Jr., who combined for 46 points in the upset.
But the road doesn’t get any easier. Up next is a rematch with Iowa State, a team Kansas handled easily back in mid-January with an 84-63 blowout win that sparked an eight-game winning streak. The Cyclones, currently ranked No. 5, will be looking for revenge - and Kansas could use all hands on deck.
So what’s the latest on Peterson’s availability?
“He is really sick,” Self said. **“Is he better today?
Yeah, he was out there yesterday. Was he full speed?
No. Was he full speed today?
No. I'm hoping he can be closer to full speed tomorrow, and hopefully, he can be full speed on Saturday.”
**
Kansas fans will have their eyes on the pregame warmups once again this weekend, hoping to see No. 22 back in action. Tipoff against Iowa State is set for 12 p.m. CT on Saturday, with the game available for streaming on ABC.
Whether Peterson suits up or not, Kansas has shown it can rise to the occasion. But make no mistake - when he’s healthy, Peterson is one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. The Jayhawks will need him at full strength as the season heads into its most critical stretch.